After the hearing, the permits will move on to the city council regardless of the commission’s recommendation. The city council will vote on the permits next Monday.
Google representatives are scheduled to give a project update at the meeting. The city’s economic development director will also share updates on the data center development agreement.
CURE claims Minnesota Power employees were taking part in discussions about the proposed Hermantown data center before the acquisition but failed to disclose that information during hearings.
On Monday, Mortenson Development Inc. sent a letter to the City of Hermantown removing its request for permit review and approval from the planning and zoning meeting scheduled for Nov. 18.
Despite the infrequent and narrowly defined use of NDAs, Mayor Paine expressed concern that the absence of a direct policy risked potential abuse and an erosion of public trust.
A footprint for the 1.8 million square foot facility was laid out in a 400-page environmental review document shared by the City of Hermantown last week.
